Genesis 47:22 (KJV)

What does Genesis 47:22 mean?

Genesis 47:22 explains that during the time when Joseph bought up most of the land in Egypt for Pharaoh, he did not buy the land belonging to the priests. The priests kept their land because Pharaoh had already given them a regular allowance of food, so they did not need to sell their property.

This verse is part of the story where Joseph, acting on Pharaoh’s behalf, acquires land from the Egyptian people during a severe famine. The priests are singled out as an exception because Pharaoh provided for them directly, giving them a special status and security that others did not have. This detail highlights the unique privileges of the priestly class in ancient Egypt.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 47:22

• land (אֲדָמָה, ʾadamah): This word refers to the physical ground or territory. Its use here emphasizes that the priests’ actual property, not just their income, was protected.
• priests (כֹּהֵן, kohen): This term identifies the religious officials of Egypt. Their mention underlines their distinct social and economic position.
• portion (חֹק, choq): This word means an assigned share or allowance. The verse stresses that the priests’ needs were met by Pharaoh’s provision, so they did not have to sell their land.
• Pharaoh (פַּרְעֹה, Par‘oh): Naming Pharaoh as the giver of the portion shows his authority and the special relationship he maintained with the priests.

Why Genesis 47:22 matters

• Genesis 47:22 clarifies that not everyone in Egypt lost their land to Pharaoh during the famine; the priests were an exception, which shows the social structure and priorities of the time.
• The verse highlights the power and influence of the priestly class, who were supported directly by the king, setting them apart from ordinary Egyptians.
• This detail helps explain later verses about land ownership in Egypt and gives insight into how religious and political power were connected in ancient societies.